Rave Off? The Impact of the New Coronavirus Rules
In 1994, parties across the country were criminalised by the passing of the Criminal Justice Act. The hugely controversial Act was a response to the government’s displeasure at rave culture and all that it entailed, not least the raves themselves (sections 63 to 66 are entitled ‘powers in relation to raves.) Where s.63 applies to…
To Confiscate or Not to Confiscate? Proceeds of Crime in CV Fraud Cases
An eye catching case recently came before the Court of Appeal. The main facts are interesting enough on their own, but those involved in confiscation cases will find it especially noteworthy. In the wake of a Supreme Court case called Waya, changes were made to the Proceeds of Crime Act. A key amendment was made…
Furlough and Fraud – A Perfect Storm?
The government’s Covid019 Job Retention Scheme went live on 20 April, enabling employers to make claims of up-to £2,500 per month, per employee, until at least the 30th of June. HMRC have already expressed concerns that the scheme will be targetted by orgainised criminals looking to profit illegally from payments on offer. A spokesperson was…
Lockdown Law: A Practical Overview
Three weeks in and a fast-tracked set of laws are upon us all. Although the issue is a public health one, the new legislation imposes rules and restrictions on behaviour- with the scope for penalties if we do not conform. The key legislation is the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020. Here, we present…
Running a Livery Yard: Do’s and Don’ts from a Legal Perspective
Do make it clear to owners/keepers that you are legally obliged to act on any welfare concerns if they are not taking appropriate steps to address them. As a livery yard proprietor, a horse spends more time with you than with anyone else, and you can be the subject of a prosecution in relation to…
Recent Cases in Animal Welfare
Two recent cases have brought attention to the law on animal welfare. As is so often the case, the facts may be somewhat novel but the underlying points are of broader interest. An unusual case A woman from Birmingham was sentenced on 23 January after being found guilty of four animal welfare offences. Louise Lawford…
When Is A Dog Deemed Dangerous?
Dangerous Dogs In Recent Media Very sadly, recent media reports have detailed a shocking case in which a woman from Widnes died having been attacked by two dogs. Those keeping dogs may not feel that they need to pay attention to the law in this area, but an awareness of it can go hand in…
Get With The Programme: TV Licensing
The Prime Minister has mused recently about whether or not to scrap the TV Licence. Though it may be a gripe paying for a licence, what does the law actually provide for if you don’t? Amber Walker, a Solicitor in our Regulatory Law team, takes a closer look. Action is taken against some 180,000 people…
Fools’ Gold: Treasure Hunters Convicted After Trial
In a recent article, Regulatory Solicitor Amber Walker looked at a somewhat obscure but interesting area of the law: how it applies to treasure, and the finding of it. A current case has highlighted the area once again, offering a stark example of the worst-case scenario. In June 2015, George Powell and Layton Davies uncovered…
Successful Result in Fatal Driving Prosecution
Ian Anderson spent the week defending a man charged with causing death by dangerous driving at York Crown Court. Following a four day trial the jury returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty. It was an excellent result in a particularly difficult and tragic case involving two close friends who were involved in a motorbike…